MBTA commuter rail conductors receive special smartphones

BOSTON (FOX 25 / MyFoxBoston.com) – Conductors on the commuter rails are testing out a new program to stay informed while behind the controls.

The Boston Globe reports 24 conductors have been given specially programmed iPhones which run a special application to provide train locations, messages from dispatchers, as well as track and schedule information.

The smartphones, called conductor companions, will not be able to send texts, e-mails, make calls, or surf the Internet.

The pilot program is divided between conductors at North and South Station and will be evaluated for three months for a potential expansion.

The MBTA says this is a first of its kind for the commuter service. They say they spent about $100,000 on the phones and the app.